Ramon Santiago happy to make Reds team

Ramon Santiago will be the Reds' backup shortstop in 2014.(Photo: USA TODAY Sport)

GOODYEAR, Ariz. -- Ramon Santiago was happy on Wednesday, because the 34-year-old utility man had been told the day before that he'd made the Reds' roster.

The Reds signed Santiago to a minor-league deal in late January, with a guarantee of $1.1 million if he made the big-league club. Despite hitting just .225 in spring training games, Santiago made the club as its backup shortstop and utility infielder.

"I'm very happy, I wanted to be on this team because it's a very special group and then they gave me the news and I'm looking forward now to do the best I can to help the team win ballgames," Santiago said on Wednesday morning.

Santiago has largely been a backup player throughout his career -- playing in more than 100 games in just three of his 12 seasons, and starting 100 or more just once, in 2003.

Last season Santiago start 56 of the 80 games he appeared in for the Tigers -- 30 at second base, 19 at shortstop and seven at third base.

With the Reds, he'll primarily be used as a backup for Zack Cozart, filling the role that has been served by Cesar Izturis, Wilson Vladez and Edgar Renteria had in the past.

The promise of more playing time -- he appeared in 56 games for the Tigers last season -- was part of Santiago's desire to move to the National League. However, the player in his role last season, Izturis, played less than Santiago did in Detroit, but much of that has to do with injuries. The National League game with more double-switches and pinch-hitting, offers more playing time for most utility players, all things being equal.

Santiago was also attracted by the opportunity to play for Bryan Price, who was the pitching coach in Seattle when the Tigers traded him there in 2004.

"I have a lot of respect for him and the way he goes about his business, and he's a true professional," Santiago said. "I knew I had to work hard and do my best, I know this spring training isn't my best, but at the same time I'll be better and play different positions. I'm working hard, I never stop working, no matter the situation. I'm going to keep working getting ready for the season to start."

In addition to his infield duties, Santiago also played one game in left field this spring.